The CTA economy is best described as a stabilization economy, a hybrid between a command system and a tightly regulated mixed economy. Its goal is not growth or profit but continuity and predictability. It is highly regulated and most everything goes through Chain Routes managed by the CTA and heavily monitored. The most convenient trade is legal, and that works in the CTA’s favor.
Economy & Trade To-do / Questions
The dominant economy is via CTA credits, credit-stamped barter, trade, or smaller-scale sale: most areas use CTA issued currency, others favor ration strips (but very few), and black zones use unit trade (battery hours, wire bundles, nutrient packs).
It’s highly regulated and most everything goes through Chain Routes managed by the CTA and heavily monitored. The most convenient trade is legal, and that works in the CTA’s favor.
CTA policies strongly support foundational infrastructure, especially agriculture, filtration, and long-term habitat maintenance.
These are considered “stabilization/balanced sectors,” and receive most of the functional budget.
Nonessential sectors like luxury commodities, off-world tourism, or high-arts development that are not under the CTA receive minimal support.